HC Deb 27 January 1972 vol 829 cc1594-5
8. Mr. Blaker

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he is now in a position to announce the results of his review of civil defence.

Mr. Sharples

I expect a detailed circular to be issued to local authorities next month.

Mr. Blaker

Is my hon. Friend aware that many units of the Voluntary Civil Aid Service have maintained themselves in existence for many years now in the expectation that this Government proposal would provide them with an opportunity to continue to play a satisfying rôle? Will he give the House an assurance that that will be so?

Mr. Sharples

My right hon. Friend gave a full reply to a Question asked by my right hon. and learned Friend the Member for Huntingdonshire (Sir D. Renton) on 5th August, in which he set out the Government's policy. In so far as voluntary organisations of this kind can play a part in local authority plans, it is our view that they should play as full a part as possible.

Mr. William Price

Is it not clear that civil defence is a "con" trick inflicted on people who would have no hope of survival in a nuclear conflict? Why does not the Minister give to those who, with good intentions, engage in civil defence a real rôle in emergency and accident work?

Mr. Sharples

The rôle played by those who work in conjunction with local authorities can be in civil defence and in emergencies of other kinds, but this is a matter which should be co-ordinated by the local authorities.

Mr. McCrindle

Contrary to what was said by the hon. Member for Rugby (Mr. William Price), will my hon. Friend note that there is great disappointment that he has not followed the considerable local interest and effort which has been shown in this matter by a clear decision to put the Government squarely behind civil defence?

Mr. Sharples

As I said in reply to an earlier supplementary question, my right hon. Friend gave a very full statement of the Government's policy on 5th August, and I have nothing to add to that.

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